Shirley Manson Urges Wisconsin Church to Cancel Pig Wrestling Event

Shirley Manson, lead singer of the world-renowned rock band Garbage, is calling on a Stephensville, Wisconsin, church to cancel its plans for an inhumane pig wrestling contest, which is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 10 at St. Patrick’s Parish. The singer released the following statement:

“I am so disturbed to learn from my friends at The Humane Society of the United States that St. Patrick’s Parish is planning a contest in which pigs are punched in the face, kicked, body-slammed, jumped on, and thrown into a bucket. Pigs are exceptionally intelligent animals who deserve to be treated with love and care.

“Wisconsin has a special place in my heart since my band Garbage got its start there. We are better than this unnecessary and abusive activity. Please cancel the Roundup Pig Rassle immediately and permanently.”

Melissa Tedrowe, Wisconsin state director for The HSUS, said:

“St. Patrick Parish’s planned ‘pig rassle’ does not convey the Catholic church’s spirit of compassion. Animals can endure serious physical and psychological trauma during such activities, and forcing animals to suffer for entertainment’s sake is wrong. The church should cancel this needless event and find a form of entertainment that is in line with Wisconsin’s values.”